Reopening of Rafah Crossing in Both Directions for Travelers and Patients

SadaNews: The Rafah land crossing located in the south of the Gaza Strip reopened this morning, Monday, to allow the movement of citizens and patients in both directions after a long period of closure, with imposed Israeli restrictions.

Reuters reported, citing an Israeli security official, that the crossing has resumed operation between Gaza and Egypt for residents in both directions.

Local media also reported that the crossing officially began receiving travelers, particularly humanitarian cases of patients and injured individuals, in addition to passport holders. Approximately 150 patients and their escorts have been prepared since the early hours of the morning to be transported through the crossing for treatment in hospitals outside the strip.

It is anticipated that some of the individuals stranded on the Egyptian side will arrive in Gaza in the coming hours.

It is worth mentioning that the operation of the crossing began on a trial basis on Sunday morning after more than a year and a half of near-total closure, following the occupation army's control over the crossing on May 7, 2024, from the Palestinian side and its complete closure, which halted the movement of travelers and prevented humanitarian aid from entering the strip.

The Israeli Broadcasting Authority had announced that Egypt would send a daily list of 50 names for Israeli approval, in preparation for their entry into the Gaza Strip the following day. This step comes as part of new arrangements with the opening of the Rafah land crossing.

According to reports, around 150 Palestinians will leave the Gaza Strip daily, while only 50 individuals will be allowed entry after their names are reviewed and approved by the Israeli side.

According to the Israeli Broadcasting Authority, the European force will be responsible for sending a daily list of names of those departing from Gaza to the Egyptian authorities, along with their final destination.